Carrier Bag Charge

Retailers across Fife are being reminded that they'll soon have to charge for all carrier bags.

Fife Trading Standards are advising suppliers about their duties under the new regulations. From October 20th onwards, single use carrier bags can no longer be given away free of charge when people buy goods. The Regulations will introduce a 5 pence minimum charge for all single use carrier bags. In addition to this, any shop with more than 10 full time staff, or equivalent, has to keep financial records of how much they make from this charge and keep those records for at least three financial years. 

Retailers who fail to impose the carrier bag charge could face a range of sanctions including a £200 fixed penalty charge.

The Scottish Government says by reducing the number of carrier bags being carelessly discarded there will be a real opportunity to reduce the amount of litter which can have a negative impact on our resources, environment and economy. It's also hoped the reuse of carrier bags will complement strategies to reduce litter on land, in the sea and rivers systems. 

The Scottish Government is encouraging businesses to donate the proceeds to good causes, which benefit local communities or the environment. Retailers will be able to commit to supporting local good causes with the net proceeds of this charge which will in turn generate positive publicity for their business.